Dear, beloved, or descendant
Derived from the Old English word 'leof' meaning dear or beloved. It is also frequently used as a variant spelling of the Scandinavian name Leif, which means descendant or heir. In modern usage, it is often associated with the English word leaf, giving it a natural feel.
Less common today
Lief isn't in the latest US Top 1000. It last peaked at #5,390 in 1999.
American actor and voice artist
US births per 5-year period, 1990–present (SSA data).
